2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (153 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 552 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1979 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. (150 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Cobalt | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2000 mm |
